Machiavellian organizations are at work around the globe to subvert current governments, or at least that's the idea behind many conspiracy theories.

A conspiracy theory most often provides answers to random acts of violence or atrocities. From the assassination of JFK, for example, to the attacks of September 11th, conspiracy theorists ignore mainstream information in favor of the fantastic and sometimes bizarre. They believe that the answers provided by the media or government fail to provide adequate explanations. They instead hold up their claims as fact, and demand others provide definitive proof. However, in all fields, it's the responsibility for theorists to provide data, which others then scrutinize. Conspiracy theorists fail to do this.

Conspiracy theorists are mocked and ridiculed. Their ideas are synonymous with folklore.

Preview the lesson material:

Warm Up: Discuss the question with your partner for five minutes.

What do you know about conspiracy theories? Do you believe any of them?